Lifestyle change programme for type 2 diabetes patients launched | Multidisciplinary

A program which will assist Malaysians with type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) to better manage their condition has been launched.

Called the Glucerna® Lifestyle Change Program (GLCP), the 4-week programme provides structure to encourage the development of healthy habits, such as proper nutrition, physical activity, and continuous glucose monitoring, which are crucial for controlling T2DM and glucose management.

The lifestyle intervention programme is led by a team of trained physicians and dietitians and includes T2DM management via a balanced diet, diabetes nutrition supplements, exercise, glucose monitoring, and medication. In addition, participants will learn how to deal with diabetes burnout and other obstacles that undermine their dedication to diabetes care. Furthermore, they will receive support from participants who share the same objectives, challenges, and resources in order to better manage their T2DM.

Dr Manoharan Paranjothy, consultant in primary care and pharmaceutical medicine, and panel doctor for GLCP, noted that lifestyle changes and balanced nutrition are crucial to managing T2DM, but the process of changing any habit, such as physical activity or diet, does not occur overnight. “'While pharmacology is a critical piece of diabetes treatment, without accompanying diabetes medication with lifestyle changes, patients can [still] be on the path of their disease progressing. Making lifestyle changes is just a matter of thinking long-term from the start and making smart choices that will lead to a healthier you,” said Manoharan.

Diabetes on the rise, act now
The number of diabetic Malaysians is increasing. One-in-five adults are estimated to have diabetes, and there may be many more who are unaware of their condition. Living with diabetes can be extremely difficult and has a negative impact on a person’s quality of life and relationships. Adopting a healthier lifestyle, including proper nutrition and exercise, can assist diabetics in managing their condition.

Dr Nina Mazera Mohd Said, medical director for Abbott’s nutrition business in Malaysia, said managing diabetes can be challenging and caused patients to be overwhelmed and stressed. She added: “While there are multiple factors that people with T2DM have to take into account on a daily basis, nutrition is a key component that can help them take control of their health and make a positive impact on their lives. That’s why Abbott introduced the Glucerna Lifestyle Change Program to provide tools and resources, including dietary counselling, to help Malaysians with their diabetes management so they can live fuller, healthier lives.”

A pilot of the GLCP involving 40 individuals with T2DM was conducted in 2021. The participants received a starter kit that included Glucerna®—the diabetes nutrition supplement—a continuous glucose monitoring device, a resistance band, and a diabetes lifestyle guide handbook on T2DM management. Throughout the programme, participants received regular consultations with dietitians, individualized healthy meal plans, and advice on daily exercise routines to help them maintain and improve their blood glucose levels within the recommended range. This year’s programme was prompted by the pilot’s overwhelmingly favourable reception and results. As such, more than 70 qualified participants passed a screening conducted by medical professionals and began their journey toward better T2DM management.

Further details on the intervention programme can be found at <insert QR code> https://beincontrol.co/